MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

MRI has become the radiological investigation that helps to examine the majory of anatomical regions with great precision, while not involving the use of radiation, which makes it very safe technology of the future.

What is it ?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a modern technology based on the use of a high magnetic field in relation to the physical properties of water molecules in the human body.

MRI therefore differs from conventional radiology because it does not use ionizing radiation, thereby ensuring absolute production from radiation. MRI is particularly suitable for the investigation of non-limb regions like the brain, vertebral column, joints and the urogenital system.

Preparation

For your investigation, you must bring along:

• Your prescription
• Your previous radiological investigation reports, if available
• Your insurance company contact details

Procedure

A MRI investigation is non-invasive but is relatively long, requiring at least 25 minutes for the actual investigation. Total immobility of the concerned region is necessary in order to obtain high quality images. We will therefore do our best to make sure you are comfortable as much as possible.

You should be prepared to spend a minimum of one hour in our facility (from administrative procedures to changing of clothes, lying on the investigation table and discussion with the radiologist).

Every metal object (watch, jewellery, auditory aids and dental devices, etc) must be removed in the dressing room where a robe and single-use footwear will be given to you.

In order to reduce the discomfort from the noise of the machine, we will give you Quies rubber foam earplugs and if you wish, a headset with which you can listen to music of your choosing.

We will monitor you constantly from our work station and communicate with you by means of microphones.

You will also have access to a call button to alert us to any concerns you may have.

The radiologist may request for an injection of gadolinium (by intravenous route) close to the end of the investigation, if indicated, in order to increase image contrast.

At any point in time, you may ask for the investigation to be stopped.

Your wellbeing is our concern.

Results

After the investigation, the radiologist will discuss with you and give you a CD containing the images.

The diagnosis will be transmitted to the prescribing doctor who will receive a detailed report by fax or telephone as from the following day.

Afterwards, you may also request for the report as well as the images for up to 10 years after your investigation.

Our machines

The Servette Imaging Centre is equipped with the latest generation of MRI equipment.

Without any iota of doubt, MAGNETOM Aera by Siemens is the currently the most MRI machine on the 1.5-Tesla MRI machine market.

With a wide bore of 70 cm and a short magnet of 145cm, it perfectly meets the patient’s needs for comfort and avoidance of claustrophobia.

Multiple integrated functions in the machine allow for the performance of high quality investigations that meet the request of the physician treating you.

Investigations performed

CIS offers you a wide range of MRI investigations, using the capabilities of the equipment and the specializations of the medical personnel maximally.

Here are some examples of investigations performed at the Servette Imaging Centre.

Orthopaedic Imaging

Orthopaedic Imaging

Vascular imaging

Rheumatological imaging

ORL-neurological imaging

Male reproductive system imaging

Female reproductive system imaging